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Dengue is a viral disease that is transmitted complications of dengue fever through the bite of the Aedes aegypti mosquito. The mosquito transmits one of the four dengue viruses to the patient. It is one of the most prevalent diseases in the world. The World Health Organization estimates that 400 million cases occur every year. India reported more than 68000 cases in 2019 which resulted in 40 deaths. The government of India has been working on raising dengue awareness so that the spread of the disease can be prevented. Here are 7 complications of dengue fever: Depression Dengue can result in depression, Credits: Freepik A study called anxiety and Depression Symptoms in Patients with Dengue Fever and Their Correlation with Symptom Severity shows that dengue fever has been linked with depression. Many individuals who suffer from dengue have shown symptoms of the onset of depression. In some cases, anxiety has also been observed. The exact cause of this is not known. Experts suggest that patients should be warned about possible depression and given treatment if necessary complications of dengue fever. The severity of the illness depends directly on the depression level. The problem only manifests for a short period after the disease and subsides on its own. Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever Dengue mosquito image, Credits: Flickr It is a rare syndrome that can occur when a person is suffering from dengue fever. This syndrome can cause circulatory collapse and lead to hemorrhage. This type of dengue fever is very dangerous with mortality rates rising to 30%. Children and infants are at high risk of developing dengue hemorrhagic fever. Dengue hemorrhagic fever symptoms include bleeding of many forms such as nose, abdominal, and gum bleeding. Hepatic Dysfunction Hepatic dysfunction or liver failure can occur due to dengue. Dengue fever has a variety of possible in the liver amongst individuals. In some cases, it remains largely unaffected while in others there is a possibility of liver failure. The condition is rare but it is believed to be a recognized cause. Dengue Encephalitis It is a condition in which the dengue virus starts affecting neurons in the brain. It is preceded in most cases by shock. The common symptoms include reduced consciousness, seizures, and disorientation. This condition can be fatal. Heart Damage The dengue virus can hurt the heart. If it affects the heart then it damages it both structurally and functionally. The dengue virus has been linked with various cardiac illnesses including pulmonary edema and shock. A study titled Complete Heart Block in Association with Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever talks about the heart damage to a patient suffering from dengue. Febrile Convulsions Febrile convulsions are seizures or fits which occur due to the presence of an infection in the body. They are characterized by a rise in body temperature. Dengue fever can cause febrile convulsions in children during a particular part of the cycle of the virus. Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation: it is a condition that reduces blood clotting capacity. This allows the formation of thick clots In the blood which in turn leaves other body parts to excessively bleed. This condition is very rare but it usually occurs with dengue hemorrhagic fever. What are the Symptoms of Dengue? Fatigue and tiredness are common signs of dengue in adults, Credits: Flickr The symptoms in children and adults differ. All the symptoms need not be visible in every individual. Symptoms in Children and Adults High fever Fatigue Skin Rash Bleeding in Gums Nausea Vomiting Symptoms In Children Below 1 Year Age (Infants) Excessive crying and irritability can be due to dengue, Credits: Pixabay Shivering Refusal to accept oral fluids Increased irritability Excessive crying Reduced urine output Which Diagnostic Test for Dengue is Used? The two following dengue tests are used to confirm the presence of dengue virus after observing clinical symptoms: NS1 Antigen test: This test is performed to confirm the presence of antibodies produced due to exposure to the dengue virus. Dengue Platelet Count: The blood platelet number decreases in dengue fever. This test is used to detect the presence of dengue as an identifying mechanism. It is corroborated against clinical symptoms and the location of the patient. The platelet count reduces massively in dengue. Takeaway Dengue is a serious medical condition that can have life-threatening consequences. If you are in a dengue prone area and you notice such symptoms then see a doctor. Infants and children are more at risk than adults. The prevention of dengue can be done by preventing mosquito bites.

If someone close to you is diagnosed with a serious medical condition it affects your life as well. Some diseases require treatment, lifestyle changes, and support from people around them. One such disease which is very common in India is Diabetes. Diabetes has become a grave concern for India with more than 3 crore people suffering from it. Experts suggest that his number will continue to rise as India is unable to attain freedom from diabetes. Even if you are not suffering from this but someone you are living with is, there are things you will need to know. This is important to help you in ensuring the care of your loved ones. Here is my experience of living with a diabetic mother. Acceptance The first part that would be hard is to get an old person to accept they have a serious condition and that this condition requires certain changes. My mother turned into a very rigid person who did not believe that the disease is serious. To tackle this problem, you need to talk facts. Use data to explain to them how dangerous the condition is and convince them into accepting it and working to manage it If this problem did not arise for you then consider yourself lucky. The Changes Walk can qualify as an exercise for old people, Credits: Needpix Diet: requires changes. These changes include diet, exercise, and alternative therapies. When initially the diet came and my mother was told that she cannot eat like she used to, she became quite bothered. Restricting someone’s diet, especially for a foodie, is a big thing but it has to be done. One factor which is escalating diabetes in India is the poor lifestyle and food choices. To make it easier for my mother I started monitoring my diet as well. I got rid of the sweet snacks and found healthier items. If there will be food items that a diabetic cannot eat then it becomes difficult for them to ignore. If everyone decides to eat healthily then it becomes easier for the patient in the beginning. Physical Activity: Some form of exercise is a must for a diabetic patient. Exercise helps in weight loss, maintains optimum metabolism levels, and releases stress. There are many studies that show the importance of exercise for a diabetic patient. I had to encourage my mother to do exercise and you have to do the same. It is easier if you can be a part of a group of people all of which exercise. Debunking the Myths Honey can be as harmful as sugar for a diabetic patient, Credits: Wikimedia Commons One very important aspect of living with a diabetic patient is to not fall for the myths. There are many types of advice you will come across regarding the right and wrongs of approaching diabetes.  My advice is to do not believe any of them before consulting an expert. If you have doubts, talk to a doctor about it and proceed afterward. One such question I came across was: is honey good for diabetes?  Somebody had informed my mother that if you substitute sugar with honey you can have it as much as you want. That is incorrect. Honey cannot be consumed in large quantities. Honey and sugar can be interchanged but their quantities need to remain limited. There are many such pieces of information that can cause a lot of harm. Diabetes awareness is still low in India but if India wants to achieve freedom from diabetes then awareness about the disease needs to increase. Ayurvedic Medicine for Diabetes Bottle gourd juice can help with diabetes, Credits: Flickr Ayurvedic medicines can be very helpful in treating and managing diabetes. This was another advice that my mother was given but this one helped.  She got an ayurvedic treatment which helped control her diabetes better.  There are many forms of treatment available and you can try after consulting an ayurvedic medicine for diabetes doctor. Some common ayurvedic treatments used in diabetes are fenugreek seeds and bitter gourd juice. Takeaway Living with a diabetic parent brings about many changes to your life. In my opinion, these changes are necessary because they help the patient cope with the problem. Support your loved ones by being aware of diabetes and making changes. Pay attention to the myths of diabetes and if you try ayurvedic medicines consult an expert before it. Diabetes is a manageable disease if handled properly.

A seizure is a condition where the brain neurons start to uncontrollably transmit signals. This causes an electrical disturbance which results in abnormalities in a person’s behavior, physical movement, psychological problems, and levels of consciousness. Depending on which part the seizure or abnormal electrical disturbance starts in the brain, seizures can be divided into three parts: 1)  Focal Onset Seizures (Partial Seizure) In this type of seizure, electrical neuron disturbances only occur in one part of the brain, where it begins and thus the name”focal” or “focus”. This type can be further classified based on how aware one is of their surroundings during an episode. ●    Simple Seizure During this, the person is conscious, focused, and aware of his surroundings and can often recall every single detail of the episode which leaves them a feeling of strangeness and frustration afterward. ●    Complex Seizure During this, the person is unaware or unconscious as this type of seizure affects the larger hemisphere of the brain. They are unable to hear, respond, or comprehend with their surroundings or themselves during an episode. It is also commonly followed by a lot of confusion, abnormal or aggressive behavior. Other symptoms of focal seizure: Repeated jerky movements Strange posture or facial reaction Losing muscle tone and flexibility Repeated chewing movement Visual disturbances Twitching, numbness or tingling sensation Losing balance during a Seizure, Credit: UIhere 2)  Generalized Onset Seizures This type of seizure occurs on both sides of the brain simultaneously with no symptomatic warning signs. Besides myoclonic seizures, in all generalized seizures, the person is usually unconscious and cannot recall the events of the episode. ●    Clonic Seizure It causes repeated jerk-movements, almost in a rhythm. It usually occurs on one side of the body but can occur in the entire body as well. Muscle spasms of the face, neck, arms may last for several minutes. ●    Tonic Seizures The muscles of a person during a tonic seizure suddenly becomes stiff. It is to such a great extent that if a person is standing, they can suddenly collapse and fall backwards due to loss of muscle strength. People usually suffer a head injury due to such accidents. ●    Atonic Seizures It is also known as the drop attack seizure as the person’s muscles become floppy due to sudden relaxation of the muscles. Similar to tonic seizures, the person will lose balance and support while standing and have a massive fall which could potentially cause severe injuries. ●    Myoclonic Seizures These seizures are brief episodes that occur one after another. They take place in clusters within a small interval of time. The muscles of the person will experience a strong, sudden jerk. It’s almost as if someone has shocked them with a defibrillator or an electrical muscle stimulation machine. Twitching and jerky toes during seizures, Credit: Pxhere ●    Absence Seizure As the name suggests, the person will become absent-minded or unresponsive during this seizure. The person is found to be daydreaming or blankly staring at objects without blinking. They usually continue the movement they were performing before the seizure. For example, if a person is walking they will continue to absent mindlessly walk with no direction or awareness. Such episodes are quite short which make it difficult to identify. 3)  Unknown Onset Seizures In these types of seizures, the location of the brain where the seizure starts is unknown. Moreover, these types of seizures are general not witnessed while it’s happening or the person may not even know he has an episode. It also commonly occurs while the person is sleeping. Seizure in Infants, Credit: Pexels Neonatal Seizure in Infants The neonatal period is the first 28 days of the baby’s life which is very vulnerable to complications and the child is at a high risk of dying. Neonatal seizures commonly occur in the first 1 to 7 days of the baby’s life. The most common signs and symptoms include: Slowly breathing pattern Excessive sucking and chewing Unusual pedaling movements Excessively blinking or rolling eyes Uncomfortable or struggling movement Impact: They can cause damage to the baby’s brain and cause serious and permanent malfunctions in the baby’s system.

Infective endocarditis is a condition in which the bacteria enter the bloodstream and infect heart valves and the lining of the heart chambers. It is a serious condition that requires immediate medical condition as the patient is at risk of severe complications such as stroke and heart failure. it is caused by bacteria, Credits: Pixabay Symptoms of Infective Endocarditis The following are the common symptoms: Pain in chest Skin rash usually red in colour Swollen joints Body pain Tiredness Breathing difficulty The appearance of white spots inside the Blood in urine Chills Fever Headache Causes of Infective Endocarditis It can spread through IV drug abuse, Credits: pikrepo It occurs when harmful germs enter the bloodstream and reach the heart. The causes are categorised based on the activities which are likely to result in it. Using a Catheter: A catheter is a device which is passed through the urinary bladder as an outlet for urine. It is attached to patients who are admitted to hospitals. Long term use of catheters can lead to infections such as the one in question. It is advised to regularly change catheters to avoid infections. Through the Oral Route: Bacteria usually enter the body through the mouth. They can do this through eatables and also during other activities such as brushing your teeth. Body Piercings: Body piercing requires a medical-grade needle to be used on a body part. However, these needles are usually not handled by trained experts. Unsanitized needles can be a route for harmful bacteria to enter the bloodstream. Injectable Drug Use: Like body piercings, illegal injectable drugs users also utilise unsanitized needles. They often use the same needle on multiple people which makes infection more likely. Dental Treatment: During dental treatments, if cuts are made on the gums then they can allow bacteria to enter the blood circulation and do damage. Who is More Likely to Develop Infective Endocarditis? Piercings can cause infections, Credits: piqsels Certain population groups are more likely to develop this disease. They are: Previously Suffers: The disease damages the heart and it continues to remain relatively weak after treatment as well. Once you suffer from it, you are more likely to relapse again. Activities Involving Unsanitized Needles: People who engage in activities which involve unhygienic needles are more likely to suffer from infectious diseases. These activities include tattoo making and piercing. Heart Conditions: Conditions such as congenital heart disease and damaged heart valves weaken the heart which makes it easier for bacteria to infect the heart. Infective Endocarditis Treatment Dental procedures are subject to infections, Credits: Pxhere The endocarditis treatment needs to be immediate and hospitalisation is necessary. Seeking immediate medical help is important. Treatments involve two steps: Antibiotics: For the duration of your stay in the hospital IV antibiotics will be administered to fight the infection. Once a patient is deemed healthy enough to be discharged, oral antibiotics are prescribed to continue to manage the infection. Ampicillin, Gentamicin and Ceftrixone are commonly used. Surgery: In severe cases, surgery is required to treat the heart valves. Heart valves can be repaired or replaced depending upon the extent of the damage. However, this is a complicated and risky procedure that is done only in select places. Libman Sacks Endocarditis Libman Sacks endocarditis or non-bacterial thrombotic endocarditis is a rare condition in which endocarditis like vegetations is formed on the heart valves. This condition occurs as the cardiac manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus, It is an autoimmune disease. As it is a symptom of a disease, the treatment focuses on treating systemic lupus erythematosus. Infective Endocarditis Prophylaxis Infective endocarditis prophylaxis is an antibiotic therapy which is used to prevent the disease. The basis for this therapy is that it should be given to high-risk patients. An example of using this therapy is to give antibiotics to a patient who has congenital heart disease before a dental procedure. In theory, this option is correct. However, during the last decade, antibiotic resistance due to the overuse of antibiotics has been a major concern. To battle antibiotic resistance this therapy is used very rarely these days. Takeaway Infective endocarditis requires treatment. If you notice any of the above-mentioned symptoms then consult a doctor immediately. In addition to that, if you are at high risk of developing it then you need to be aware of the disease and take preventive measures. The disease is treatable if medical help is provided in time.

The female anopheles mosquito is responsible for one of the deadliest diseases in the world. According to the World Health Organization, every year, there are more than 200 million cases of malaria which result in more than 4,00,000 deaths. There are more than 100 species of the anopheles mosquito which can transmit malaria. However, 40 species are actively involved in the transmission of the disease. During Which Time of Day are They more likely to Bite? Malaria causing mosquitoes only have to bite once to infect a person, Credits: Freepik The female anopheles mosquito is active primarily between 5 pm and 10 pm and early morning between 4 am and 8 am. These mosquitoes can be active throughout the day. However, they are more likely to be active during the above-mentioned period. This is attributed to the temperature changes in the day. Why Does the Anopheles Mosquito Bite? Human blood vessels are nutritious for the mosquito, Credits: Pixabay The female anopheles mosquito reproduces rapidly. On average it lays up to 150 eggs every 2-3 days. These eggs require nourishment which comes from the blood of humans. Human blood is nutrient-rich for the mosquito. This mosquito follows rapid and regular reproductive cycles which results in a massive increase in the number of mosquitos. How Does the Anopheles Mosquito Spread Malaria? Malaria is spread through the bite of the mosquito. The female anopheles mosquito possesses two sharp stylets which cut through the skin and penetrate it. It is in search of blood vessels. The mosquito can identify if it has found a blood vessel or not. In case, a mosquito does not find the blood vessel, it repositions its body and penetrates the skin through another angle. During this bite, the female anopheles mosquito releases gametocytes into the bloodstream which cause malaria. Why Do We Not Feel the Bite of the Female Anopheles Mosquito? The female anopheles mosquito has two tubes in its proboscis. One of these tubes is to extract the blood vessels whereas the second is to inject its saliva. The saliva of the mosquito contains anti-inflammatory enzymes. The combination of these enzymes affects the clotting process and does not allow the body to immediately feel the pain. The presence of these enzymes makes it easier for the mosquito to bite humans. What is the Average Life Span? An average lifespan of a malaria-causing mosquito is 2-3 weeks. However, in Ideal conditions where weather conditions and availability of food source suits them, their lifespan can increase. Can You Differentiate Between a Female Anopheles Mosquito and Other Mosquitoes? The female anopheles mosquito does have a distinct appearance but it is difficult to identify with the naked eye. Some people can identify it after killing the mosquito. The female anopheles mosquito is brown whereas other mosquitoes tend to be black. Where are They Likely to Lay Eggs? Mosquitoes lay eggs in water, Credits: Pixabay The mosquito lays eggs in areas with waterlogging. The water can be logged in artificial containers such as buckets, shells, and metal containers. During the rainy season, there are many areas where water logging occurs and it provides the perfect environment for the mosquitoes to lay eggs. The water only needs to be logged for 3-4 days as eggs turn into adults in just one week. What Can We Do to Protect Ourselves? Spraying insecticides kills mosquitoes, Credits: Public Domain Pictures There are three things that a person can focus on to stop the growth of female anopheles mosquitoes. Stop Them From Biting: The primary way of protecting ourselves from malaria and other mosquito caused diseases is to stop the bite. This can be done using mosquito repellants which can be applied on the skin. If a mosquito is not allowed to bite a human then they do not get the blood they need to reproduce. This leads to a decrease in the number of mosquitos. Using Insecticides: Insecticides are compounds which can kill insects. Many specialised insecticides are available which act on mosquitoes. Using insecticides is the most effective method of battling mosquitoes. Prevent Water Logging: Standing water is a must for female anopheles mosquitoes to reproduce. If waterlogging is prevented then their frequency will reduce significantly which will decrease the number of cases of malaria. Takeaway Malaria is a dangerous disease which can be fatal. The fight against this disease can only be won if we are aware of it and take preventive measures. Your goal should be to prevent all mosquito bites.

The dengue fever aedes, like most mosquitoes, thrive in humid tropical and subtropical climates like India and are commonly found in the region. This causes a lot of health-related problems such as mosquitoes acting as vectors of some of the most dangerous or fatal diseases in the world. The subgenus-stegomyia of the Genus- Aedes contains two important vectors like Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus that cause harmful diseases like dengue and chikungunya. More significantly, the dengue fever aedes aegypti mosquito is one of the biggest causes of vector-borne diseases in the world, infecting around 390 million people yearly. Lifecycle Cycle The mosquito undergoes a complete metamorphosis process in four stages: 1)   Egg Duration: 2-7 days [Two days in a warm climate, seven days in colder climates] After taking a blood meal, a female mosquito produces around 100 to 200 eggs per batch and lays up to five batches during its lifetime. All the eggs are laid separately and not at once. Once produced, the eggs are laid on damp surfaces or places where rainwater collects like: Barrels Drums Jars Pots and buckets Flower vases Tanks Discarded bottles Tires Water cooler Appearance of the egg: Smooth Long Ovoid shaped One millimeter long White in color but turns gray within a few minutes after getting laid. Adaptation: If the area where the egg has been laid is dry, then the eggs can survive for several months or years until the medium becomes damp again. This kind of adaptation increases the survival of this species. This makes it very difficult to eradicate such mosquitoes and the diseases that it spreads. Breeding areas, Credit: Pikist 2)   Larva Duration: Around 4 days After the eggs hatch, the larvae will receive the necessary nutrition by feeding on the organic organisms present in the water. Larval development is temperature-dependent. The larvae pass through four instars, spending a short amount of time in the first three, and up to three days in the fourth instar. Fourth instar larvae are approximately eight millimeters long. Usually, males develop faster than females and thus enter the pupa stage earlier. Adaptations: In cool temperatures, the developing mosquito can remain in its larval stage for months so long as the water supply is sufficient. The larvae can swim from the surface of the container to the bottom if it is disturbed or is unable to survive on the surface. 3)   Pupa Duration: 2 days The larvae enter the pupal stage after the fourth instar stage. At this point, they are mobile and responsive to any stimuli. They do not feed during this stage of development until the adult stage. 4)   Adult stage Duration: 14-30 days depending on climate conditions. Once mosquitoes have turned into adults, they emerge out by: Ingesting air Expanding their abdomen which splits the pupal case. However, from this stage, the male and female life cycle is quite different. Male and Female after the Adult stage Once the male reproductive system has been developed, they start to find females to mate with by attracting them with their large antennae. After mating, they will only live for 3-5 days where they continue to feed on plant nectar and fruit juices. However, since females are responsible for reproducing and laying eggs,  they need to consume blood meals and hence go on to bite humans. Aedes mosquito, Credit: Pixnio The Growth Rate Keeping in mind with close reference to the life cycle and nature or laying eggs, here a mathematical calculation to give a clearer idea on the mosquito population. The first day 1 female x 300 eggs = 150 males, 150 females After 2 weeks an extra 150 adult females will lay another 150 females each. After 6 weeks after development 150 females x 150 females = 22.500 females After 12 weeks 22500 females x 150 females = 3.375.000 females After 18 weeks 3.375.000 x 150 females = 506.250.000 females and they all need blood to feed! Transmission of Dengue Virus How does the mosquito get infected? The mosquito gets infected when they feed on the blood of the virus-infected person. How do humans get infected with dengue? Once the mosquito is infected, it undergoes an 8-10 days incubation period but during this period, they are capable of transmitting the dengue fever aedes virus to humans during their next blood meals and are capable of doing so throughout its remaining lifetime. Once infected, the virus circulates and multiplies in the blood for 2-7 days.

People often underestimate the power that acne has over dehydrated skin people and fail to understand its impact over one’s mental health. For two years of my life, I struggled with severe acne and had no clue how to initially deal with it. It all started when I started my face laser treatment as I was getting thick hair growth around my sideburns and upper lip. After a few sessions, I started to observe a significant amount of acne around my cheeks and forehead. At first, I was worried but eventually continued these sessions until it got so severe that I decided to stop my laser treatments after the 5th session. After this, my acne started looking less inflamed and irritated, so I assumed it would eventually clear out in a week or two. Little did I know that it would only get worse from here. Within two weeks, my face was covered with clusters of acne all over my cheeks, chin, neck,  back and forehead. It got so bad that they would almost appear to be blisters. My face was so tender that if I opened my mouth, the pimples would pop and bleed out. When I woke up from my sleep, my pillow cover would be stained with blood. Initially, I tried popping the pimples but it proved to only get worse. In conclusion, my acne was out of control. Low self confidence, Credit: Pxfuel Pimples: How They Affect Your Self Confidence Throughout this time, I was the most panicked I’ve ever been in my entire life. I dedicated my time to research on acne and tried to figure out what was wrong with my skin. By the end of it, I knew every home treatment that claimed to cure acne and all the possible reasons that cause acne – tea tree treatment, honey, rice face mask, oats mask, salicylic acid spot treatment – you name it, I’d tried it. I also started to extend my research to diet and even cut down foods like dairy products, spicy food, chocolate, sugar, and even drank gallons of water until my stomach felt like it was going to explode. Things were not looking good as nothing worked. In time, I stopped leaving my home in order to avoid people, and even when I had to face a person during rare occasions, I always made sure to be a few steps away in the hope that they wouldn’t recognize my acne. The combination of my frustration and the physical pain and appearance of acne ruined my self-esteem and self-image. I became obsessed and depressed at the same time. I was unable to look at myself in the mirror and eventually became a socially awkward person. This was when I decided to visit a dermatologist and seek professional help. Dermatologist, Credit: radar When I Got Help I have no idea why it took me so long but I’m so glad I did. My only wish is that I would’ve gone to her sooner. At the end of the sessions she informed me that I was suffering from cystic acne and although this seems like bad news at first, I was somewhat relieved because I knew what the problem was and I could finally treat it efficiently. My doctor told me that every time I was putting hundreds of products in the name of treatment, I was merely just dehydrating my skin even more by stripping off the essential oils on my face. As a result, the dry and rough skin triggered over production of oils which eventually clogged my pores with dead skin. My treatment plan for cystic acne consisted of two parts: Medications and self-care. I was put on some anti-inflammatory creams, vitamin A derivatives, antibiotics, and topical antiseptics. This followed a low sugar diet and also avoided greasy, dehydrated skin dairy products, and oily foods. For self-care, I followed and used antibacterial face wash and spot treatment creams that contained Benzoyl peroxide. What I’ve noticed from this is that the care and treatment plan I was now following was very similar to the ones I had earlier tried. However, they were limited and more concentrated on a few treatments. Treating cystic acne, Credit: Pexels Trust the Process and Have Patience! In addition to that, after seeking professional help, it gave me the confidence to trust the treatment and committed to it. In a week, I noticed promising results, and by the end of the month, most of my acne cleared up. There was still intense scarring. dehydrated skin Fast forward to two and a half months and my skin was completely cleared out and one could barely spot the scars. Takeaway Now every person will have a different recovery period depending on the extent of the problem but it’s important to have faith in yourself and trust your dermatologist and treatment plan. The most important thing to remember is that this is just a phase, with proper help, dehydrated skin treatment and adjustments, it will soon end. Do not isolate yourself from your loved ones just because of your acne and most importantly do not let it define you.

Did you know women are more prone to genital yeast infection than men? Yeast infection is a type of fungal infection that targets the genital area causing pain, itching and discharge. Know how you can get rid of a yeast infection at home. 1.  Boric acid Boric acid, Credits: pixabay Studies have shown that boric acid alone can improve the symptoms of vaginal yeast infection. Research indicates that boric acid interferes with the lifecycle of fungi like C. albicans and C. glabrata. Thus, boric acid can help prevent the vicious growth of fungi and infection. 2.  Over the Counter Medications or Vaginal Itching Cream Vaginal itching creams, Credits: pixabay There are numerous anti-fungal creams available that can help you get rid of a yeast infection within a few days. Some good examples of these ointments include miconazole and terconazole. Make sure not to use the ointment for vaginal itching when you are pregnant. 3.  Tea-tree oil Tea tree oil, Credits: pixabay The active components of tea tree oil have shown potent cytotoxic effects on the fungal cells. It has been reported that tea tree oil contains various chemicals that diffuse into the fungal cell wall and destabilize cell membranes resulting in osmotic shock. 4.  Coconut oil Coconut oil for fungal infection, Credits: pixabay Lauric acid and caprylic acid are the two most important constituents of coconut oil which have shown the antifungal property. Research studies have shown that using coconut oil for vaginal yeast infection can help get rid of it. The medium-chain fatty acids of coconut oil actively reduce fungal colonisation. This action is carried out by weakening the fungal cell-membrane and disintegrating it. 5.  Garlic Garlic, Credits: pixabay Garlic has numerous properties which include anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-cancer, immunomodulatory and antiparasitic effects. The anti-fungal effects of garlic are attributed to the allicin compound, which exerts oxidative metabolism on the fungal cells and prevents further fungal infection. It makes one of the perfect home remedies for itching in private parts of the female. 6.  Oil of oregano Essential oregano oil for treating vaginal yeast infection, Credits: pixabay High levels of carvacrol and thymol present in oregano oil may help fight fungal infections with ease. Carvacrol is a potent anti-oxidant compound whereas thymol contains anti-fungal properties. Both these properties inhibit the growth of fungus in the genital area and provide relief from its symptoms. 7.  Probiotics Probiotics, Credits: pixabay Probiotics are friendly bacteria that help maintain the good health of our intestine while also boosting our immune system.  Consuming probiotics enhances the epithelial barrier and maintains epithelial integrity of the small intestine. The intestinal barrier consists of the mucous layer, antimicrobial peptides, and secretory IgA which function as an antifungal to keep Candida bacteria in check while boosting your immune system. 8.  Apple cider vinegar Apple cider vinegar for yeast infection, Credits: pixabay Research studies have shown that using apple cider vinegar as a bath solution can help you get rid of fungal infections. This property of apple cider vinegar is due to its acidic nature which is unfavourable for the growth of fungi and bacteria. 9.  Good Hygiene Washing hands is a good hygiene practice, Credits: pixabay “Prevention is better than cure”. So, if you want to keep yourself away from the fungal and bacterial infection, try following good hygiene practices. You can prevent having recurrent vaginal candidiasis by keeping your genital area clean and dry. Do not use soap and water and wash only with warm water. It’s essential to follow menstrual hygiene as well to keep good menstrual health. All the treatments as mentioned earlier can also be used as a male yeast infection home remedy In order to prevent yourself from catching yeast infections, try wearing breathable cotton wear, keep things loose, manage your diabetes and use anti-biotics only when it’s dire necessary.

Pulmonary stenosis is a congenital condition of the heart where stenosis or narrowing of the pulmonary valve occurs. This leads to reduced flow towards the lung. Pulmonary valve connects the lower right heart chamber (right ventricle) and the pulmonary arteries. The pulmonary artery function is to carry less oxygenated blood towards the lungs. What are the Symptoms of  Pulmonary Stenosis? Internal structure of the heart, Credits: pixabay………. Symptoms of valvular pulmonary may include: An abnormal whooshing sound due to turbulent blood flow which can be heard on the stethoscope. It is also referred to as pulmonary murmur. Falling short of breath during exertion Fatigue Pain in the chest Fainting or loss of consciousness The symptoms may also vary depending upon the degree of its intensity. What are the causes of pulmonary stenosis? Improper growth of the pulmonary valve which results during fetal development. Other contributing factors may involve carcinoid syndrome in the digestive system and rheumatic fever that may damage the pulmonary valves. Other congenital heart defects. Genetic disorder. What are the Various Risk Factors Associated with Pulmonary Stenosis? There aren’t many known risk factors for pulmonary stenos because it usually develops before birth. However, certain conditions and procedures may increase your risks of pulmonary stenosi which include. Pulmonary valve replacement Noonan syndrome Carcinoid syndrome of the digestive system which triggers the release of serotonin chemicals from the growths of carcinoid in the digestive system. Rheumatic fever How can you Prevent Pulmonary Stenosi? Pulmonary stenos can be prevented by following a heart-healthy lifestyle which includes: Quitting smoking. Doing exercise regularly Limiting the intake of sodium salt, cholesterol and fat Undergoing balloon valvuloplasty in case the mother is identified with pulmonary stenosi during pregnancy.

Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES), also known as Chamki fever, affects hundreds of children each year in Muzaffarnagar of Bihar. The exact cause behind this Bihar encephalitis is yet to be identified. What is Chamki fever or Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES)? Chamki bukhar in English is known as Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) is a serious public health issue in India characterised by inflammation in the central nervous system. The defining feature of AES is the acute onset of fever hampering the neurological functions and sometimes also associated with seizures. There are two types of encephalitis – primary and secondary. Primary encephalitis – Is a condition where the virus directly invades the brain and infects it. Secondary encephalitis – In this type, the viral infection occurs due to weaker immune function and which later on spread and invade the brain. Symptoms of AES Child suffering from flu-like symptoms, Credits: pixabay The clinical signs of acute encephalitis syndrome include Flu-like symptoms like headache, fever, fatigue, and body ache Weakness and aches in muscles or joints Nausea, vomiting Acute inflammation of the brain. Impaired consciousness Limb paresis or death. Acute Encephalitis Syndrome is caused by: There are a wide variety of conditions that are involved in causing AES, which include: Bacterial or viral infections in the brain. Ingestion of toxic substances. Complications which result from infectious diseases and underlying malignancy. The infective causes are known to be a predominant factor behind acute encephalitis syndrome. More than 100 different pathogens have been recognised as causative agents for Chamki fever. Among these, Japanese encephalitis (JE), Varicella-zoster, measles, Enteroviruses, Epstein Barr virus, Influenza, Adenovirus, Herpes simplex, and Mycoplasma pneumonia are the most frequent pathogens. Some Facts on Acute Encephalitis Syndrome: Encephalitis in Bihar predominantly occurs in the populations having low socioeconomic status. Lack of good hand hygiene practices was strongly associated with the occurrence of AES. Transmission of AES from one village located far away to another supports the transmission of the virus by water, food and contact. The presence of lychee (Lychee Chinensis) orchard in the vicinity of affected households was significantly associated with the occurrence of AES. Most of these fruits lying on the ground are contaminated with faecal matter. When these fruits are consumed, the oral-faecal transmission of the disease may occur. Prevention of AES or Chamki fever Good hand hygiene can keep away Chamki virus, Credits: pixabay Encephalitis syndrome can be prevented by taking necessary precautions that can help avoid contact with viruses that cause it. Good hand hygiene: washing hands with soap and water after defecation may limit the oral faecal transmission of the disease. Get vaccinations on time: Taking recommended vaccinations and Japanese encephalitis vaccine on time without delay can keep your children safe from catching an infection. Keep yourself protected from mosquitoes: Use mosquito repellent cream, wear long sleeve cotton clothes, use insecticide, remove standing water at times when mosquitoes are most active. Treatment of AES or Chamki Fever Treatment Injection for AES, Credits: pixabay Mild symptoms can be treated by taking rest and plenty of fluids. Medications like Tylenol, Advil can also be considered. Anti-viral medications like Zovirax, Foscavir and, Cytovene can be taken. All these medications should be consumed after consulting with your doctor. Severe symptoms may require supportive care in hospitals. Japanese encephalitis vaccine This vaccine is known to protect against Japanese encephalitis. These vaccines are more than 90% effective in fighting encephalitis. The vaccine is also recommended as a part of routine immunizations in countries where the disease is a problem.

Negativity creeps into our lives in some form or another and with everything that’s going on in the world at the moment it is at an all-time high. Some recent studies have portrayed negativity quotes in the same bracket as addiction. Allowing negativity in your life is like watering dead plants. It will take up your time and energy but with no result. This is what negativity quotes does to you. It increases stress, ruins your mood, decreases your cognitive functioning, hampers your productivity. So, here are 7 ways to battle everyday negativity: Decluttering Clutter decreases productivity, Credits: Freepik Unnecessary items that take up space in your surroundings are known as clutter. These could be clothes lying around, garbage, or just an abundance of stuff that you do not need. Clutter can diminish your cognitive functioning by occupying your mind. Decluttering is the process of removing unwanted items that take up space. It allows you to optimize your life which helps remove negativity. To declutter your life you need to start small. Begin with one part of your room or just a table and proceed. Decluttering will remove the negativity from your life. Channelize Your Thoughts One very important aspect of dealing with negativity is to manage your thoughts. Negativity is often caused by not having clear thoughts and overthinking. This can be done by keeping yourself occupied. The old saying, ‘an empty mind is a devil’s workshop’ applies here. Small tasks should replace your free time. Identify the Sources of Negativity in Your Life Identifying the cause can help battle negativity.  An average person has 3-4 sources of negativity. Analyze which parts of your life are the sources of negativity. These can be done by using the process of elimination. Remove one activity every day as an experiment and find out what is causing you negativity. You can also counter some of these sources by making your environment comfortable. Connect with nature, and use mood lighting in your house and surround yourself with friends whenever you can. Find An Activity You Love Playing an instrument, Credits: pixabay One of the best methods to deal with stress is to constantly do an activity that you love. It can be playing an instrument, playing a game, watching a show, or painting, or anything else. Stress testing has shown that people who regularly partake in a hobby of their choice have lower stress levels. Stop Making a Big Deal Out of Small Problems One major source of negativity is the exaggeration of our problems. If an incident occurs which is bothering then you need to understand how important it is. Most of us are bothered by things that will not harm us in the long run. This gives rise to excessive worrying which leads to negativity. Before making a big deal out of it, ask yourself how much it will affect you in the future. Exercise A sport can motivate you to get exercise, Credits: Flickr Physical activity is a must for staying healthy and it helps in getting rid of negativity as well. Studies show that regular exercise makes a person feel more positive and full of energy. Exercise raises your metabolic rate and increases adrenaline production which helps in stress-busting. A 30-minute workout every day is a must. If you find that you are not motivated enough for working out then try a sport. It will be easier to make it a habit if you enjoy it. Yoga and Meditation Yoga can help decrease negativity, Credits: Pxhere Alternative therapies such as yoga and meditation have helped millions of people. These therapies help a person overcome their negativity by allowing them to channelize their thoughts and free their mind. They also have a positive effect on the body which leads to mood lighting and upliftment of a person. You should give one or both of these a try as they can help you release stress and let go of the negativity. Takeaway Negativity quotes has to be removed from your life. It has a massive impact and affects all aspects of your life. Try these above-mentioned activities to move towards positivity. In case you do still feel your life contains a significant amount of negativity then seek help from a therapist. Your mood can shape your life. If you are in a good mood, everything seems good but if you are in a bad mood, the good also becomes bad. Negativity has to be managed because it controls your mood.

The spread and extent of the novel coronavirus continue to increasingly progress since January 2020, especially in the last few months. The authorities around the world have tried their best to contain this epidemic by ordering over 3 billion people around the world to live in isolation and under lockdown. As we continue to live in fear of this virus, we face problems of mental and physical restrictions due to months under lockdown as they all hope for a solution or cure. However, the negative impact and extent of this virus has been far worse than such problems and give the people no choice but to continue this lifestyle. As of 5th July, India surpassed Russia and took the third rank in the top worst-hit countries by the coronavirus as the total number of positive cases rises to 14,33,443 (26th July). Moreover, unlocking has pushed up the number of cases in Maharashtra  as the number of cases added from the 1st of July is 2,01,109 with Mumbai contributing to 31,513  cases and Pune contributing to 61,027 cases. Coronavirus, Credit: Pexels States Affected by Coronavirus in India Here’s a recent Coronavirus update of the number of cases and death in some of the most affected states in India:StateNumber of cases reportedDeath tollArunachal Pradesh11263Andaman and Nicobar Islands3180Madhya Pradesh27,800811Maharashtra3,75,79913,656Gujarat55,8222,326Haryana31,132392Andhra Pradesh96,2981,041West Bengal58,7181372Bihar38,919234Karnataka96,1411,878Rajasthan36,430624Punjab13,218306Delhi1,30,6063,827Telangana54,059463Uttar Pradesh66,9881,426Odisha25,389140Assam31,08677Tamil Nadu2,13,7232,13,723Kerala19,02561 The overall impact in the country:Total number of deaths/death toll32,758Total number of people discharged8,85,577 Vaccine update, Credit: Pikist Coronavirus Medicine, Treatment and Vaccine Update Oxford University and AstraZeneca have teamed up with a private vaccine maker, Serum Institute of India (SII). They are currently showing significant progress and are approaching towards the end of testing. After promising and progressive results, they are finally approaching the crucial phase 3 of testing. Experimental testing for this phase will also be conducted in India. Last week, positive results were observed for the vaccine, AZD1222, as studies claim that it is “safe, well-tolerated and immunogenic”. Due to the contributions of the DBT India in funding, research, trials, etc, it increases the chances and hope of the vaccine being available for Indians sooner than predicted.